The God Who Sees – The God Who Rewards
Today has been an interesting day. I have been working on an online course on the Constitution and Declaration of Independence through Hillsdale College. I also worked on my lesson for tomorrow nights men’s group. I am also trying to monitor some periods and times of fatigue. This could be some residual symptom of the West Nile or some lingering affects of the Myasthenia Gravis. I am looking forward to an active week ahead. I have three trips to Denver on my calendar.
BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “You let that woman Jezebel spread false teachings…I have given her time to change her heart and turn away from her sin, but she does not want to change. So I will throw her on a bed of suffering. And all those who take part in adultery with her will suffer greatly if they do not turn away from the wrongs she does. I will also kill her followers. Then all the churches will know I am the One who searches hearts and minds, and I will repay each of you for what you have done.” Revelation 2:20-23 NCV
As the message comes to the Church of Thyatira, the “eyes of fire” and “feet shining like bronze” of the resurrected Christ are the focus of attention. This is the God who sees what we don’t want Him to see and goes where we don’t want Him to go. His steps are sure and firm and His eyes penetrate the darkness of any situation or life.
This is a church of love, faith and patience. It is a church that continues to “do more” for the Lord. However, there is a toleration of false teaching and evil practices. The responsible party is referred to as “Jezebel.” Jezebel was the famed “Queen of Evil” during the days of the Old Testament kings. Her evil had an impact on her husband, King Ahab of Israel and on the nation of Judah as well.
Since the Church was not responding with correction, the Lord was preparing to “step in” and to judge those who were guilty. Perhaps the “love” and “patience” of these believers allowed them to be slow to judge and condemn. But as they coddled carnality, the Lord was prepared to take action they had failed to take.
What is interesting is with the metaphor of an Old Testament person of evil, we find an Old Testament outcome of God’s judgment. ” Then all the churches will know I am the One who searches hearts and minds, and I will repay each of you for what you have done.” (Rev. 2:23 NCV) In the Old Testament prophets we see a repeated statement from the Lord, that as a result of His judgment the people would, “know that He is the Lord…”
Those who have been faithful are to continue in their service to the Lord. As a result of their faithfulness they are promised not just victory or the prospects of overcoming or receiving a reward, but the promise of ruling and reigning over nations with Christ.
The promise of Revelation 20:6 says, “Blessed and holy are those who share in this first raising of the dead. The second death has no power over them. They will be priests for God and for Christ and will rule with him for a thousand years.”
Just as false prophets were a plague to God’s people in the Old Testament, that threat will continue until the last days. It calls for God’s people to be continually on guard. It calls them to continue to be people of love, faith and patience. To continue to grow in their service while maintaining constant vigilance. In the words of the Battle Hymn of the Republic, “His truth is marching on.” He is coming soon and His reward is with Him. (Rev. 22:12)